Hydro-Urea Storage, Lactic Acid Substitution, and Formulating with Sodium Lactate

Asked by: chocollate1313 On: January 17, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have several questions regarding formulation:

  1. How should I store the unused portion of Hydro-Urea?
  2. Can I use Lactic Acid to replace Gluconolactone in a formula? If so, what pH range is suitable for stability and efficacy?
  3. Amlactin claims that using Ammonium Lactate, Sodium Lactate, and Potassium Lactate together is better than using just one. Is this true?
  4. How can I formulate a cream or gel with Sodium Lactate, considering its high electrolyte content makes formulation difficult?

Answer

Hi,

Regarding your questions about Hydro-Urea storage and using Lactic Acid:

  • Hydro-Urea Storage: For the unused portion of Hydro-Urea, you can store it in the refrigerator if convenient. If not, storing it in a room that is not exposed to direct sunlight, light, or heat, and is well-ventilated and not stuffy, is sufficient.
  • Lactic Acid vs. Gluconolactone: Yes, you can use Lactic Acid to replace Gluconolactone in your formulation. Please adjust the pH of the formula to be in the range of approximately 3.5-5.5 for stability and good efficacy (Amlactin, a major brand using similar formulas, uses a pH level of 5.0).

Regarding your other questions:

  • Multiple Lactates in Amlactin: Amlactin states that using Ammonium Lactate, Sodium Lactate, and Potassium Lactate together yields better results than using only one type of Lactate. However, there is no independent research to confirm this claim definitively.
  • Formulating with Sodium Lactate: Since Sodium Lactate has high electrolyte content, it can make formulating creams difficult. It is recommended to choose thickeners or bases that are not problematic with electrolytes, such as Silky Serum Base (for serum texture) or Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (for gel texture).

Hope this summary is helpful!

Thank you.